HIDDEN GEMS: Codman's Punch & Judy, Llandudno

At 162 years old, the traditional Victorian-style Codman’s Punch and Judy Show in Llandudno is the longest-running Punch and Judy show in Britain!

Having entertained Llandudno's holidaymakers since 1860, it's now in the care of the 5th generation of the Codman family and relies solely on audience donations.

Where It All Began...

Travelling showman, Richard Codman was stranded in Llandudno in 1860 when his horse died. He collected driftwood from the beach and hand-carved the Punch & Judy puppets, the very same puppets you still see today!

From 1860 to 1863 the show performed within the town of Llandudno but in 1864 gained approval from Lord Mostyn to perform on Llandudno promenade and has done almost every summer season for over 160 years. It has only ever been absent for two spells, the First World War, because Herbert Codman, was away fighting, and COVID-19, as the show couldn’t operate under live event rules.

So if you're joining us for a Llandudno break, be sure to stop by for a dose of nostalgia and some slapstick fun.